Port Ellen 1983 - 2006 'Selected by The Way of Spirits'

The Port Ellen 1983 - 2006 'Selected by The Way of Spirits' is a superb example of superior craftsmanship, bottled by Wadell Hepburn. This exceptional single malt Scotch whisky unites the lost secrets of the famous Port Ellen distillery, which closed its doors in 1983, and allows aficionados to enjoy a rare piece of whisky history.

Tasting note

Nose

On the nose, the Port Ellen offers a complex and inviting aroma, with a subtle mix of maritime influences such as sea salt and iodine, followed by a warm cloud of peat smoke. Beneath these classic Islay notes, the connoisseur will find a rich layer of fruity accents with hints of citrus and ripe apples, supported by a hint of vanilla and old oak notes, indicative of the long ageing in oak casks.

Taste

At the first sip, the whisky reveals itself with an impressive depth of flavour, in which the timeless balance between the smoky character and the mellowing influence of the oak casks is immediately apparent. The smoky notes are complemented by a rich array of flavours, including sun-dried fruits, nuts, and an undertone of caramel and leather - a testament to the harmonious interaction between the whisky and the oak casks.

Finish

The finish is long and memorable, with a lingering, smoky glow and subtle hints of pepper and spices, which slowly give way to a mildly sweet aftertaste that captures the timeless essence of Port Ellen.

Port Ellen Distillery

Port Ellen Distillery is located on the south coast of the island of Islay, near the village of the same name. Founded in 1825 by Alexander Kerr Mackay and later taken over by John Ramsay in 1836, Port Ellen has a rich history, but sadly closed in 1983. The distillery quickly gained legendary status among whisky lovers.

A specific feature of Port Ellen was its pronounced peat smoke, resulting in whiskies with a deep, smoky flavour. The distillery used traditional copper pot stills and used water from the nearby Leorin Lochs. The whiskies were mainly matured in ex-bourbon casks, which contributed to the balance of sweet and smoky notes.

Port Ellen whiskies are known for their complex flavour profiles with notes of seaweed, medicinal smoke, sea salt and a subtle sweetness. Despite the closure, the remaining bottles remain in high demand and are often seen as collectibles and investment items.

The reopening of the distillery, on 19 March 2024, has raised much anticipation among whisky lovers worldwide, who are hoping for a revival of this iconic Islay single malt whisky.

Please note

This bottle was bottled a long time ago. Please be careful when opening. The closure may have deteriorated. The item is sold as photographed and described. We do not accept any liability for the condition of the closure.